2. amps-preamps
  3. 1290820461

good headphone amp/preamp?

OK, looking to get a headphone amp for Senn HD 600s that might also do duty as a preamp running with my ATI 1502 or Mcintosh 250 and Ohm Walsh 2s given some space issues? I saw writeups on a couple of ideas in Stereophile...Little Dot, Music Hall...Chinese tubes for small $. Also, have seen things on the 'gon, like Canary. Looking for something under $500...$300 might be better. Any input is appreciated as I will be bying off the net as I wont find it out here in HI. If it is only good as a headhpone amp thats ok too as thats my primary need. I listen to lots of jazz, acoustic, female vocals,guitar and piano, 70s singer songwriters.
joekapahulu
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,903 posts
 
If you can wait awhile and maybe extend you budget, the Burson H-160D would work. It's brand spanking new, got great reviews, fits your needs but retails for around $1100. When partsconnexion.com starts to sell it, it will go with a good discount. They don't carry it yet but they do carry all of Burson's other products. Having said that, the Burson headphone amp is around $600 by itself.
Another one is Schiit (let the puns begin) but its a headphone amp only, in SS and tube versions and has gotten great reviews as well. Its made in America as well. Here is the link:http://schiit.com/
The SS goes for $249 and the tubed version for $349. They are class A devices and the guys behind it have been in the business for quite some time.
tmsorosk
1,013 posts
 
I have been using an Earmax tube amp with my Senn 600s for a long time now and have no complaints . I use a Van den hul interconnect and Cardas headphone cable . I sometimes run it direct to the source for a more direct sound or through the main preamp for a softer smoother sound . My musical tastes are very similar to yours . I'm sure you could fine an Earmax used for under $500. Happy listening
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